Multi-bit Hand Tool Locking Collar Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-bit hand tools lack an efficient mechanism for automatically locking and retracting tool elements, leading to potential accidental retraction during use and increased complexity in design and manufacturing.
Innovation Solution
A multiple bit hand tool with a handle body, chuck, and spring-driven actuation mechanism that includes a locking mechanism with a latch and release cam, allowing for automatic extension and retraction of tool elements, reducing the number of components and simplifying assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to automatically lock tool elements in extended position, then tool security during use is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism integrates the latch and release cam into a unified system where the actuator simultaneously controls both extension and locking functions. The release cam is actuated by the same actuator that extends the tool element, merging multiple functions into a single mechanism to minimize added complexity while ensuring tool security.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism automatically engages when the tool element is extended to its operative position without requiring separate manual intervention. The latch self-activates through the movement of the actuator, providing automatic locking that enhances reliability while avoiding the need for additional complex control systems.
2Ease of operation
If a spring driven actuation mechanism is used for automatic extension and retraction, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring driven actuation mechanism automatically extends and retracts the tool elements without requiring manual intervention for each movement. The spring provides the driving force for extension, and the retraction is controlled by the actuator, creating a self-service system that enhances ease of operation while keeping the mechanism relatively simple through the use of elastic energy storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuation mechanism operates in periodic cycles of extension and retraction controlled by the actuator. The spring-driven system enables repeated extension-retraction cycles with simple actuation, providing periodic action that improves ease of operation while maintaining manageable device complexity through rhythmic, predictable motion patterns.
3Ease of manufacture
If the number of components is reduced to simplify manufacturing, then ease of manufacture is improved, but device complexity may increase due to integrated functions
Solution Approach 1:
The design merges the locking mechanism components (latch and release cam) into an integrated system that works together through the actuator. By combining these functions into a unified mechanism rather than separate assemblies, the patent reduces the total number of discrete components for manufacturing while managing integration complexity through coordinated mechanical interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator serves multiple functions: it extends the tool element, actuates the release cam, and controls the locking mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying manufacturing while the universal design manages complexity by having a single component perform multiple coordinated tasks throughout the system.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables one-handed operation with a hands-free locking collar, simplifies manufacturing, and allows for longer tool bits, enhancing usability and reducing mechanical fasteners, while maintaining tool security during use.
Implementation Method 1
a spring driven actuation mechanism that is housed within the handle body and extends and retracts any one of the plurality of tool elements
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure is directed at a multiple bit hand tool which includes a handle portion and a body portion. The multiple bit hand tool also includes a chuck portion with an improved locking collar for locking the tool bit in place when it is in an extended position. The locking collar includes a latch portion with a set of latch arms each having a bit end cap contact and a release cam contact for abutting the tool bit and an associated actuation mechanism.